I some days ago sent notes to Martin, his campaign manager Jason Cline (formerly of the Koch organization) and several office employees about his failure to respond to the debate invitation. I have received no response from anyone. Perhaps another member of the media will have better luck.

I'd love a photo of Mark Martin in action. He keeps such a low profile he has no profile at all. He faces a competent election law expert in Democratic opponent Susan Inman (who also, unlike Martin, has a pleasant personality and is readily available to reporters).

Mark Martin owes the voters of Arkansas an appearance in public — AETN or otherwise — to explain why he's better qualified for the job than Inman. His failure to adequately inform the public about the new voter ID law would be a good place for him to begin.

Where's Mark Martin? Anybody know? What's he afraid of? Maybe he's helping his wife in her campaign for mayor of Prairie Grove. Is she also running a stealth campaign that relies on a familiar name and not much else?

UPDATE: I heard from AETN this morning. A spokesman confirms Mark Martin alone among major candidates will not be participating in the debate.

He declined due to a scheduling conflict.

I've asked Martin's office what conflict arose that prevented his participation. I'm still awaiting a response to earlier requests for any evidence — photos, e-mail, official notes — that he actually exists.